Multiple format telephonic interface control system

ABSTRACT

Call data signals actuated by a telephone terminal are provided from a telephone communication system to indicate call data as the called number, the calling number and the calling equipment. The call data signals address related control functions for selectively interfacing a live operator terminal or a multiple format multiple port data processing system. The interface connection involves providing a specific format as for automated processing or to prompt an operator. Screening tests and format selection are performed to make a determination. Individual telephone terminals and individual data formats are arranged and interfaced under controlled conditions specified by the call data. Time tests, history tests and demographic tests may be executed in addition to basic selection and qualification tests. Control may be executed from active data storage for assembled control words and record words. Record words for individual calls may be stored along with developed data.

RELATED SUBJECT MATTER

[0001] This is a continuation-in-part of Application Ser. No. 260,104filed Oct. 20, 1988 and entitled “Telephonic Interface Control System”which is a continuation-in-part of Application Ser. No. 018,244 filedFeb. 24, 1987 and entitled “Statistical Analysis System For Use WithPublic Communication Facility”, now U.S. Pat. No. 4,792,968, which was acontinuation-in-part of Application Ser. No. 753,299 filed Jul. 10, 1985and entitled “Statistical Analysis System For Use With PublicCommunication Facility”, now abandoned.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Over the past several years, substantial expansion has occurredin the technology of combining telephonic and computer systems. Forexample, telephone systems have been developed to readily transmitdigital data. Various forms of modems are in widespread use tointercouple telephones and computers. However, at a more personal level,it also has been proposed to utilize the traditional dialing buttons oftelephone instruments to provide digital data, as for variousprocessing. In accordance with such arrangements, voice messages promptcallers to provide data by actuating the alphanumeric buttons ofconventional telephones. These systems have been proposed in associationwith computers to provide various services and one such system isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,792,968, issued Dec. 20, 1988, to Ronald A.Katz from an Application Serial No. 018,244 filed Feb. 24, 1987.

[0003] With respect to telephonic-computer systems, attaining theinterface format desired by an individual caller is sometimes complexand burdensome. Specifically, callers may be misdirected, screening maybe ineffective and delays may be cumbersome. Also, records may be pooror non-existent. Furthermore, some situations exist where interface to alive operator is an important alternative. As a consequence, a needexists for an improved interface system for selectively interfacing aconsiderable number of individual callers with a multiple formatprocessor, as to attain efficient and economical digital and vocalexchanges along with prompting and data accumulation.

[0004] In general, the present invention comprises a telephonic-computerinterface system accommodating digital and vocal (analog) telephoniccommunication and capable of handling a large number of calls toselectively interface prompted live-operator stations or formats in acomputer processor. The selected interface is controlled, as by call(called number, calling number, etc.) and can be altered under controlof an operator, developed data or operating conditions. Accordingly, thesystem of the present invention interfaces: (1) a telephoniccommunication facility including remote terminals for individualcallers, e.g. conventional telephone instruments including voicecommunication means, and digital input means in the form of alphanumericbuttons for providing data and (2) either a prompted live-operatorstation or a multiple port, multiple format data processor forconcurrently processing data from a substantial number of callers withrespect to any of several formats.

[0005] The interface system incorporates a controller for receivingcalls from remote terminals for association with ports in the telephoniccomputer apparatus, and which receives signal-represented call data(representing “calling” and “called” telephone numbers) along withequipment information. An index apparatus is controlled, as by thesignal-represented call data, to select initially a live-operator ormachine format of the processor so as to specify any conditions for theinterface, at least one of the formats including at least one condition.A test apparatus may determine whether or not an individual call attainsspecified conditions and thereby controls switching structure forproviding the actual interface. If a live-operator terminal is selected,or indicated as a secondary format, prompt data is provided to a selectstation. Data is recorded and processing procedures also may becontrolled by call data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] In the drawings, which constitute a part of this specification,an exemplary embodiment exhibiting various objectives and featureshereof is set forth, specifically:

[0007]FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system constructed in accordancewith the present invention;

[0008]FIG. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating the operating process of thesystem of FIG. 1;

[0009]FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a component portion of the system ofFIG. 1;

[0010]FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic representation of a binary control wordas registered and utilized in the system of FIG. 1;

[0011]FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic representation of a binary data recordword as utilized and recorded in the system of FIG. 1; and

[0012]FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating the operating process of thestructure represented in FIG. 5.

DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENT

[0013] As required, a detailed illustrative embodiment of the presentinvention is disclosed herein. However, physical communication systems,data formats, and operating structures in accordance with the presentinvention may be embodied in a wide variety of forms, some of whichmaybe quite different from those of the disclosed embodiment.Consequently, the specific structural and functional details disclosedherein are merely representative; yet in that regard, they are deemed toafford the best embodiment for purposes of disclosure and to provide abasis for the claims herein which define the scope of the presentinvention.

[0014] Referring initially to FIG. 1, a series of remote terminals T1-Tn(telephone instruments) are represented (left). The terminals T1-Tn aregenerally similar and accordingly only the terminal T1 is shown in anydetail. The indicated terminals T1-Tn represent the multitude oftelephone terminals existing in association with a communicationfacility CO which may comprise a comprehensive public telephone network.

[0015] The communication facility CO, along with the individualterminals T1-Tn, is coupled to a central processing station CS generallyindicated by a dashed-line block. Generally with regard to the stationCS, individual terminals T1-Tn are interfaced either with a processor P(upper right) or one of several live-operator stations OS1-OSn (lowerleft) through a call receiver unit CU and a switch SW. Essentially, theprocessor P and the switch SW cooperate (line 9) to control interfaces,with the processor P providing interface formats either (or both) toautomate an interface or prompt a live operator at a station OS1-OSn.Note that the interface formats are stored as described below in theprocessor P.

[0016] In accordance herewith, individual telephone calls arepreliminarily processed on the basis of signal-represented call data toidentify a specific operating format for a station or the processor P.The preliminary processing may invoke screening tests to imposeconditions or establish a test criteria for the switch SW to determinethe acceptability of the call to interface with a specific operatingformat.

[0017] Calls are selectively processed according to a specific operatingformat as indicated by call data. At any instant of time, the collectiveinterface may involve several thousand calls simultaneously beingprocessed through ports of the processor P. Exemplary selected formatsof the processor might include: public polls, lotteries, auctions,promotions, sales operations and games. Accordingly, the stationsOS1-OSn may comprise a substantial number and the processor P may takethe form of a sizable computer capable of simultaneously processing manycalls involving several different formats. Although numerous possibleconfigurations are available, for purposes of explanation, the processorP is illustrated simply as a block with multiple ports. Note that whilethe switch SW and the processor P may be integrated in a single system,they are separately illustrated to isolate the detailed. structure andprocess of the present invention.

[0018] Input lines LI1 through LIn from the call receiver unit CU enterthe switch SW to provide calling data and communication paths. Outputlines LO1 through LOn function between the switch SW and the processor Pas lines LS1-LSn operate to serve the stations OS1-OSn. Note thatvarious multiplexing techniques are well known in the telephonic art tocommunicate call data and may be employed in the system.

[0019] Considering the system somewhat summarily, individual callsoriginating at the terminals T1-Tn are coupled through the communicationfacility Co and the call receiver unit CU to the switch SW. Call data,representative of calls, actuates the switch SW to preliminarily processeach call based on the desired format. For example, depending on thedesired format (indicated by the called number and/or the equipment datasignals) calls are selectively coupled and processed. Furthermore,record data is assembled for storage.

[0020] Considering the system of FIG. 1 in somewhat greater detail, theexemplary telephone terminal T1 includes a handpiece 10 (microphone andearphone) and a panel 12 provided with a rectangular array of pushbuttons 14 in a conventional configuration. Of course, the handpiece 10accommodates analog signals while the panel 12 is a digital apparatus.Generally, the handpiece 10 serves to manifest analog or voice signalsto a caller.

[0021] In accordance with conventional telephone structure, alphabeticand numeric designations are provided on the buttons 14. For example,several of the buttons 14 carry three letters along with a decimaldigit. Specifically, the button designated with the numeral “2” alsocarries the letters “A”, “B” and “C”. Thus, the buttons 14 encompass thenumerals “0-9” two symbols, and the alphabet except for the letters “Q”and “Z”. Consequently, the buttons 14 substantially accommodate theentry of decimal and alphabetic data.

[0022] At this stage, some specific aspects of the communicationfacility CO are noteworthy. Essentially, with telephonic dialing, thecommunication facility CO couples selective terminals (from themultitude of terminals T1-Tn) to the call receiver unit CU. In thatregard, the unit CU at the central station CS may be reached by any of aplurality of called numbers. For example, the call unit CU might bereached by any of twenty telephone dialing numbers, each associated witha specific operating format of the processor P. One called number or setof numbers might be associated with an auction format of the processorP. Another number or set of numbers might be associated with salesoperating formats. Still another called number or set of numbers mightidentify a game format, and so on.

[0023] Incoming calls to the call receiver unit CU are identified bycall data in accordance with telephone system techniques. As describedbelow, the call data may specifically include digital signalsrepresentative of the called number (DNIS), the calling number (ANI)(terminal number), and the terminal equipment.

[0024] In addition to attaining a preliminary interface with a selectedformat, individual calls may be screened based on the called number(identifying an operating format) and the calling number (calleridentification) or the equipment. That is, the system of the presentinvention is based on a realization that signal-represented call datacan be effectively utilized to selectively interface individual callersat remote terminals with specific operating formats of a data processor.

[0025] Considering the call data in somewhat greater detail, inaccordance with current telephone systems, the communication facility COmay provide signal-represented call data for: the “called” number, the“calling” number, and the equipment involved, e.g. “pulse” or “tone”terminal. Specifically, operating telephone equipment termed “DNIS”automatically provides the called telephone number in digital form fromthe communication facility Co. Somewhat similarly, existing telephonicequipment designated “ANI” automatically indicates the caller's(calling) number in digital signal represented form. Generally, timeshared lines carry such call data and also may provide call dataindicating equipment. Thus, the call unit CU may receive the callednumber, the calling number, and a calling equipment designation (pulseor tone), collectively termed call data, which data is utilized toestablish control functions, as for example to select an operatingformat for a station OS1-OSn or the processor P.

[0026] As described in detail below, call data is registered in theswitch SW to perform distinct control operations. Specifically, aselection section 16 of the switch SW identifies a specific desiredformat for the stations OS1-OSn or the processor P. Depending on theformat, a testing section 18 of the switch SW may screen calls forinterface connections.

[0027] Recognizing that the possibilities are great, formats for callsin accordance with the disclosed embodiment may be of three differentclasses. Specifically, call formats may specify any of the followingoperations:

[0028] 1. couple to live operator station if possible or in accordancewith a predetermined criteria; if no operator station available, coupleto processor;

[0029] 2. interface to processor;

[0030] 3. either above format, but selectively re-couple to liveoperator station or processor depending on secondary conditions.

[0031] The ramifications of individual formats within the above classesmay vary considerably; however, some examples will illustratepossibilities. A marketing format (class 1) might interface callers to alive operator if an operator is available. Upon receiving a call, theoperator station OS1-OSn (FIG. 1) also receives and displays promptingformat data for the attending operator. If an operator is not available(all stations OS1-OSn busy) the system provides an interface with theprocessor P and a format as to record the data for a return call by anoperator. Alternatively, the processor completes the transaction withdata provided by the caller that may be digital, digital and voice, orvoice.

[0032] In a game format, say of class 2, a caller may be limited tointerface the processor P. the interface may be contingent on initialtest conditions, e.g. call data, caller record, time, etc.

[0033] Formats of class 3 involve a switch between live operator andprocessor depending on secondary conditions. For example, a pollingformat may switch from the processor P to an operator station OS1-OSn ifthe caller fails to provide digital data in a responsive form.Alternatively, an operator may command a switch to the processor P uponidentifying a specific caller from whom data is to be taken.

[0034] In the illustrative system of FIG. 1, an operating process isexecuted as illustrated in FIG. 2. Each incoming call prompts apreliminary query as indicated by a block 20 concerning the availabilityof a line or port. In the absence of an available line, a busy signal isprovided as indicated by the block 22. Alternatively, an available lineresults in a preliminary interconnect as indicated by a block 24 settinga conditional connection into operation.

[0035] As indicated by a block 26, during the screening or testinginterval (typically measured in seconds or fractions of seconds) thecaller remains on line and may receive a message. That is, the callermight hear silence or may continue to hear the traditional telephonicringing sound. Alternatively, the caller might be given a brief vocalmessage to “stand by” as indicated by the block 26. In any event, thecaller is held “on line” while the process continues.

[0036] With a call on a line, the communication facility CO (FIG. 1)provides signal-represented call data, e.g. the called number, thecalling number, and the equipment designation. As indicated by block 28(FIG. 2) signals representative of the call data are captured to performpreliminary control and processing operations as will now be considered.Note that the selected formats will fall within one of the classes asstated above.

[0037] The initial test is illustrated by a query block 25 representingan operation to distinguish calls of class 1 (operator) and class 2(processor). Calls for a format seeking an operator prompt a “yes”response from the block 25 and proceed to the test of a block 27, “is anoperator available?” A “yes” determination advances the process to anoperation indicated by a block 29. Specifically, the block 29 representsthe operations of coupling a caller to an operator station andtransferring the appropriate format data to the station for promptingthe operator. If no operator is available (block 27) the processproceeds with automated control to attain an interface in accordancewith an appropriate format. Specifically, a control word is fetched(block 36) to establish an operating format for interfacing the call. Inthat regard, the specified format may be very simple. For example, thecall simply may be prompted to indicate identification for a returncall. Alternatively, the format may incorporate conditions or othercomplications as explained below.

[0038] Returning to the query block 25, if the call is to be coupled tothe processor, an initial test operation is indicated by a block 30. Avalidity test is performed, for example, a list of calling numbers maybe compiled that are to be denied access to any interface with theprocessor P. Negative calling numbers may result either by the choice ofthe person responsible for the calling number terminal, or by the choiceof the service operating the processor P (FIG. 1). For example, anaccumulation of prior improper transactions from a terminal designatedby a specific telephone number may provide a basis for completedisqualification. Equipment also may disqualify.

[0039] Recognizing that various circumstances may be involved withrespect to the total disqualification of a calling terminal, inaccordance herewith the test involves formulation of a validity bit asindicated by the query block 30. Acceptable calls set the validity bitat a binary “1”.

[0040] If the calling terminal is invalid, (“no” from the block 30) thecall is rejected as indicated by the block 32 with or without a messageand the line is released as indicated by the block 34. Note that thetime interval involved is very short and the rejection message may takevarious forms including a verbal comment, a busy signal or simply adisconnected signal.

[0041] If a positive validity bit (“1”) is formed at the junction of thequery block 30, a control word is fetched under command of the callednumber as indicated by the block 36. As described in detail below, acontrol word is available for each operating format of the processor Pand is utilized to impose the conditions for an interface and the termsof any associated billing.

[0042] As indicated in FIG. 2, the fetched control word of the block 36prompts an inquiry as to the conditions attendant the selected operatingformat as indicated by a query block 38. That is, in the process, thequery of block 38 determines whether further conditions are imposed forattaining interface with the processor P. If no further conditions areimposed, the format is initiated by pursuing the connected interface asindicated by a block 40. Also, as indicated by a block 42, the call islogged or recorded as with respect to billing data for example.

[0043] If access to a format involves conditions (“yes” from the queryblock 38), tests are specified as illustrated by a block 44. That is,conditions for the interface are specified by the block 44. Of course,the specific tests may involve various criteria; however, in theillustrative embodiment, the conditions involve time, history anddemographics. Each exemplary condition will now be considered somewhatpreliminarily.

[0044] In the disclosed embodiment, time tests involve testing the timeof the call against certain limitations. For example, it may bedesirable to limit some formats to specific time intervals as inrelation to a television broadcast, a real time auction and so on. Notethat the time tests also may be related to specific terminal control andgeographic areas treated on the basis of telephone area codes. Specificexamples will illustrate.

[0045] Assume an operating game format that propounds questions to acaller based on knowledge of a particular television program. Theprogram may be broadcast at different times in different geographicareas, and as a consequence it may be desirable to limit callsinterfacing the processor format depending on the area code of callingnumbers. Accordingly, time tests may involve solely the instant time, orvarious combinations of time and call data. The specific test isdetermined as indicated by a block 46 (FIG. 2) imposing detailedoperating instructions for the format. The test results are thencorrelated as represented by a block 48.

[0046] As indicated above, in accordance with the described embodiment,another test involves a record as for example directed to the stationidentified by the calling number. As an example, the record might takethe form of either a negative or a positive file (for an individualformat). In that regard, all formats involving “pay to dial” (e.g. 976,900 etc.) calls might be conditioned as a group. Generally, in the caseof a negative file, certain numbers are recorded that are to be deniedaccess to a particular operating format. In the case of a positive file,access to the operating format is available only to calling numberslisted in the file.

[0047] Considering exemplary implementations of the system, a negativefile may be based on limited or restricted use (as in the case of alottery) or prohibitive use (telephone terminal owner choice). Formatsaccessible on a “one-time only” basis also may be controlled by negativelists. Thus, an operating format may be inaccessible to a terminal, ormay be accessible a specified number of times during a specifiedinterval, e.g. three accesses per week. The historical test issymbolized in FIG. 2 by the query block 50 to conditionally actuate therelated tests as indicated in the block 48. History limitations also mayinvolve purely format limits. For example, a give-away or dial-freeformat may be limited to some predetermined number of calls for aperiod, e.g. ten thousand calls per day. Thus, limits can be imposed onthe economic exposure of a format.

[0048] Moving from the historic considerations, demographic tests may bespecified as in relation to the geographic area manifest by the areacode of the calling number. To consider a specific example, a publicopinion poll may be conducted in which a particular geographic balanceis defined. In such an operating format, calls may be accepted onlyuntil particular quotas are attained with respect to specified areacodes. Such tests in the process are indicated by the query block 52,again to instruct the correlation block 48.

[0049] With the requisite tests established by selection of a format,the block 48 indicates resolving the acceptability of the call for theselected interface format. If the call is accepted, the process moves toinitiate the selected format interface as indicated by the block 40.Conversely, if the call is to be rejected, the process moves to the stepindicated by block 32, i.e. reject the call as with a message andrelease the line.

[0050] If a call is accepted, as represented by the block 40, there is apossibility that an established format may be aborted in favor of adifferent format. For example, interfacing the processor P, a qualifiedcaller may fail to communicate digitally with the result that transferto a live operator is commanded. Also, in certain situations, aconnection to a live operator is to be terminated in favor of aninterface to the processor. In either event, an existing format isterminated in favor of a fresh format. That phase of the process isillustrated by an “abort” line from the block 40 returning to the block28. Thus, the process returns to re-assign the caller to a new format inaccordance with fresh data. Thus, transfers according to class 3operation are implemented along with the other classes of operation bythe switch SW (FIG. 1).

[0051] An exemplary detailed structure of the switch SW (FIG. 1) forexecuting the process of FIG. 2 is represented in FIG. 3. In thatregard, individual telephone calls are manifest from the call receiverunit CU (FIG. 1) comprising existing equipment as well known in theprior art. The call data is supplied through a line 60, upper left, FIG.3. Note that the represented single line 60 is merely symbolic of achannel to carry call data and provide direct telephone communication.

[0052] Generally, the system of FIG. 3 illustrates elements of theswitch SW of FIG. 1 for processing an individual call. As indicatedabove, the system of the present invention involves the simultaneousprocessing of many calls with the possibility that numerous calls aresimultaneously being tested for a connection as explained above.Consequently, although the system of FIG. 3 is illustrated with respectto testing a single call, it is to be understood that sequential orparallel operations and multiplexing techniques, as well known andwidely practiced in the computer field, are utilized to accomplishmultiple processing operations as are described below with reference toFIG. 3.

[0053] The line 60 (FIG. 3, upper left) enters a line capture unit 62through which signal-represented call data is supplied to a call dataregister 64. Accordingly, the call data is registered to be availablefor processing operations as explained generally with reference to FIG.2.

[0054] The line capture unit 62 also is connected to a control unit 66.Structurally, the control unit 66 may take the form of various computerfacilities incorporating memory and logic capability to sequence andcontrol specific functions as explained below. Generally, the controlunit 66 implements specific formats which may involve coupling a callereither to a live operator station OS1-OSn or to the processor P. In thatregard, the control unit 66 provides a series of timing signals t1-t6 tosequence the operations of individual component blocks as illustrated.Note that to preserve clarity in FIG. 1, connections of timing signalst1-t6 are not illustrated. Also, the control unit 66 is connected to theoperator stations OS1-OSn (line 67) to receive signals indicative of theavailability of stations.

[0055] In addition to logic for controlled switching as described, thecontrol unit 66 specifically includes a call register 68, a controlregister 70 and test control logic 72. The control register 70 receivesformat control words specified, as by the called number and having aform as illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0056] Recapitulating, each of the operating formats has a control wordfor defining any access conditions or limitations to accomplish aspecific format, e.g. connection to an operator station OS1-OSn or tothe processor P (FIG. 1). The formats may vary considerably; however, afew examples are the following:

[0057] Class 1, connect the live operator if available and provideprompt data for the XYS Company telemarketing program, if operator notavailable, cue caller: “All operators are busy at the moment, but wewill return your call as soon as possible. Please touch your telephonebuttons ‘2’ and ‘4’ to identify yourself as twenty-four for the returncall”.

[0058] Class 2, couple qualified callers to computer P for pollinginterface.

[0059] Class 3, couple callers to computer P for the RST Companytelemarketing program, however, transfer to live operator (and prompt)if caller is not responsive.

[0060] These formats are established by control words that are selectedon the basis of call data. The control words are sixteen bits,illustrated as the first sixteen bits (1-16) registered as shown in FIG.4. An additional group of registered bits (17-20) are provided from calldata.

[0061] The initial three registered bits in the control register (FIG.4) serve as test command bits respectively for a time test, a historytest and a demographics test. The presence of a “1” bit in any of thefirst three bit locations specifies the requirement for testingcompliance to specified conditions. A “0” bit indicates no test.

[0062] The bits “4 through 7” in the control register constitute a field74 and specify time conditions in relation to the instant time of thecall. The field 74 may specify eight distinct time conditions. Forexample, exemplary specified conditions for a format might be asfollows:

[0063] Accept calls between 7:00 and 18:00,

[0064] Accept calls on Thursday between 9:00 and 10:00,

[0065] Accept calls from area code 213 on Wednesday between 15:00 and16:00,

[0066] Accept calls from area code 602 on Wednesday between 16:00 and17:00.

[0067] Essentially, the time condition field 74 (activated by the timebit “1”—first bit position) defines specific intervals during whichcalls will be accepted for the specific called number and may be furtherlimited by the area codes. A wide range of possibilities are availableto accommodate specific programs for individual formats.

[0068] A field 76 in the control register embraces bits “8” and “9” anddefines the conditions for access to the format based on historicalconsiderations. Thus, two bits are provided to indicate four possiblehistorical limitations. Again, the test is specified by a “1” bit, inthis instance in the second bit location of the register 70. Thefollowing limitations are exemplary of many possibilities as related toa single telephone number:

[0069] Accept one call per day (per caller),

[0070] Accept one call per week (per caller),

[0071] Accept one call per month (per caller),

[0072] Accept one call during any three-day period (per caller),

[0073] Accept only 10,000 calls (per format).

[0074] Continuing with respect to the contents of the register 70, asillustrated in FIG. 4, bits “10” and “11” constitute a field 78specifying demographic test limitations. Again, a few examples willillustrate the various possibilities:

[0075] Accept calls only from area code 213,

[0076] Accept calls from area codes 213, 818 and 619,

[0077] Accept only 1,000 calls from area code 213,

[0078] Accept calls from area code 213 with the prefix numerals 619.

[0079] Again, the demographic test is imposed only upon the existence ofa “1” bit, in this instance in the third bit of the control word. As inthe other cases, specific possibilities are considerable.

[0080] The bits “12” through “16” of the control word constitute a field80 and designate a selection code for the identified format. These fivebits enable a substantial number of formats to be designated and codedwith respect to various classifications. For example, calls of the class1 specifying a desirable connection to a live operator station OS1-OSnmight be encoded in a “000” decimal series, e.g. “001” indicates XYZCompany telemarketing program, “034” indicates RST Company program, andso on. Accordingly, a “0” in the most significant digit specifies a liveoperator format. Similarly, lottery formats might be encoded in a “100”decimal series, e.g. “101, 102, 103 - - - 110, 111, 112” - - - and soon; auctions might be designated in a “200” series, e.g.: “201,202, - - - ”. By using decimal equivalent coding formats for variouscategories, exclusions may be concisely stated. For example, a callingnumber may be excluded from all lottery operating formats simply by thespecification of decimal “100” in association with the calling number.

[0081] The data, as illustrated in FIG. 4 is loaded into the controlregister 70. Again, the first sixteen bits comprise the format controlword and are provided from a look-up table 84 (FIG. 3, right, central)upon being addressed by call data from the register 64.

[0082] The last bits (bits 17-20) stored in the control register 70 areprovided from an equipment and billing instruction index 86. That is, inresponse to the signal-represented call data indicating the callednumber and the equipment, the look-up table 84 and the index 86 supplydata for loading the control register as indicated above.

[0083] While the control register 70 is loaded to specify the operationof the system, the call register 68 in the control unit 66 receivessignals for additional control and to formulate a record of the call.Specifically, as represented in FIG. 5, the contents of the callregister 68 includes an initial validity bit 88 for indicating that thecalled number is either on a positive list or is not on a negative list.The determination of the validity bit for location 88 is made byreference to a memory 90 (FIG. 3, central) addressed by the callingnumber.

[0084] While the calling number addresses data to indicate a validitybit, specific format exclusions also may be indicated as explained abovewith respect to certain formats. For example, certain classifications offormats or specific formats (as a lottery) may be identified asinaccessible for certain telephone terminals as identified by callingnumbers. Other than lottery formats, certain discretionary formats alsomay initiate control to limit access. Accordingly, a field 89 in thecall register 68 (FIG. 5, bits “2” through “6”) is provided from thememory 90, addressed by the calling number to specify format exclusions.That is, the calling number addresses the memory 90 to load the field 89and specify limitations. Consider a few examples of format exclusions orlimitations for a calling number:

[0085] No lottery formats,

[0086] One lottery format per week,

[0087] Two lottery formats per month of total cost under $25.00,

[0088] No auction sales,

[0089] Auction sales only with caller entered code I.D. 763.

[0090] Again, it will be apparent that many possibilities exist inapplying various coding techniques, the above merely being exemplary.Also, as indicated above, a format may be void of any limitations orrestrictions. In that event, as explained above, a connection orinterface is promptly commanded by the format code.

[0091] The bits “7” through “26” stored in the call register 68 (FIG. 5)constitute a field 91 and indicate the time of a call. Signalsrepresentative of the instant time of a call to load the field 90 areprovided from a time clock 92 (FIG. 3, upper left). Signals from thetime clock 92 may be in a Julian code and are provided to the callregister 68 and also to a time test logic network 94 (lower left).

[0092] The last bits (27-30) in the register 68 are provided from thecall data. The bits “27” and “28” indicate format billing data andcomprise a field 82. Again, representations are coded; however, withrespect to the field 82 information is derived from the called number.For example, an “800” called number may indicate no billing with therepresentative code being stored in the field 82. As anotherpossibility, a “976” prefix number, or “900” number, may indicate aspecific charge in relation to the identified format.

[0093] The bits “29” and “30” comprise a field 83 and may actuate aspecial form of the selected format. In the disclosed embodiment, thefield 83 registers call data, as to indicate that the calling terminalis a “pulse” (rotary dial) signal unit of a “tone” (touch) signal unit.In the instance of a rotary terminal, the format program may be modifiedto accommodate “pulse” signal operation or inject operator communicationwith a transfer to one of the stations OS1-OSn.

[0094] Recapitulating to some extent with regard to the composition ofthe call record word in the register 68 (FIG. 5), the memory 90 (FIG. 3)is addressed by calling number data to provide data for the validity bitlocation 88 and the format-exclusion field 89. The time of call isstored in the field 91 from the clock 92. The billing and equipment dataare provided by the index 86 in response to “calling” data signals.

[0095] Another element of memory, specifically, a recent activitystorage 98 (FIG. 3, lower right) is separately illustrated forconvenience of explanation. Essentially, the storage 98 receives wordsfrom the call register 63 to maintain a record of interface calls. Therecent activity storage may periodically be purged to permanent storageif desired. Thus, the recent activity storage 98 accumulates an activityrecord of all interface participants with respect to specific formatsand is utilized in the history test for determining that an instantcalling terminal is within the specified historical limitations asprovided from the memory 90.

[0096] The activity tests are performed by a history test logic network100 (FIG. 3, lower central). In a related context, the demographics testas explained in detail above is performed by a demographics test logicnetwork 102. The results of the test logic networks are communicated tothe test logic 72 in the control unit 66. As a consequence, a switchunit 105 is actuated to either operatively couple the line 60 into aport of the processor P (FIG. 1) or reject the call. If a call isaccepted for an interface, a signal is supplied from the test controllogic 72 through a line 107 to the switch 105 during the interval of thetiming signal T6. The signal in the line 107 also is supplied to aformat address register 109 for addressing the processor P. The register109 stores select data signals to address a specific operating format ofthe processor P.

[0097] Recapitulating to some extent, call data indicates an interfaceformat of the processor P (FIG. 1) with associated limitations,conditions and billing provisions. Call data also indicates possibleformat limitations or conditions for a calling number. The systemprocesses the data with respect to the conditions and limitations toselectively enable interface operations. Essentially, the call dataspecifies a format (processor or operator) and any conditions relatingto the format. Representative data accordingly is provided from thelook-up table 84 and the memory 90 to the control register 70 and thecall register 68 respectfully. Preliminary conditions may or may not beinvolved; however, qualified calls for an operator involve tests ofavailability within the control unit 66 according to data received fromthe stations OS1-OSn (line 67). As a result, calls are either interfacedto an operator who receives a format prompt, or interfaced to theprocessor according to a specified format. Thereafter, a shift maycommand a redetermination and a transfer as described in detail below.

[0098] In view of the above structural and logic description of thesystem of FIG. 3, the process as described with respect to FIG. 2 andthe stored control word forms as described with respect to FIGS. 4 and5, a comprehensive understanding of the described embodiment may nowbest be accomplished by assuming an exemplary call and treating theindividual responsive steps. Accordingly, assume the occurrence of acall as manifest on the line 60 (FIG. 3, upper left). Further, assumethat the called number, “976 513 7777” designates a lottery format withlimited access. Details of the limited access will be treated below.

[0099] Upon occurrence of the call, the line capture unit 62 seizes aline relationship and signals the control unit 66. Immediately, aninterval of time signal tl is initiated and the register 64 is loadedwith the called number (“900 513 7777”), the calling number (“415 3184444”) and the equipment designation (tone or no tone). To the caller,the operations as now described involve an almost imperceptible delay.

[0100] During the following interval of timing signal t2, the callregister 68 and the control register 70 are loaded as illustratedrespectively in FIGS. 4 and 5. Specifically, the called number andequipment designation specify data to load the control register 70. Thecalling number (“415 318 4444”) from the register 64, prompts the memory90 to load the validity bit 88 and the format exclusions in the field 89of the register 68. Concurrently, the time clock 92 loads the field 91with signals representative of the current time.

[0101] If the call register 68 does not receive a validity “1” bit, thecalling number is indicated to be barred with a consequence that theline is released by the control unit 66. In that regard, a voicegenerator 106 (FIG. 3, left central) may be actuated by the control unit66 branching to the operation of timing signal t6. Accordingly, amessage of denial may be provided on the line 60 prior to release of theline. Note that the voice generator 106 may be variously used to promptor inform callers in certain preliminary selection operationssupplemental to the specific operations disclosed below.

[0102] As indicated above, concurrently with the loading of the callregister 68 (timing signal t2), the control register 70 also is loaded.Specifically, from the register 64, the called number cues the look-uptable 84 to fill most of the control register (bits “1” through “16”,FIG. 4). The fields 82 and 83 are supplied from the index 86.

[0103] That is, distinct from the fields loaded into the controlregister 70 from the look-up table 84, the fields 82 and 83 are suppliedfrom the index 86. In that regard, assume the called number (area code976) indicates that the charge for the service of the call will bebilled through the caller's telephone records. Assume that the field 83indicates a “tone” terminal effective for a conventional digitalinterface.

[0104] At this point, some still further assumptions will be made topursue the explanation of the detailed operations. Specifically, assumethat the format specified by the called number (“900 513 7777”) is alottery format and includes limitations with respect to time, historyand demographics. Accordingly, the initial three bits of the controlword all will be “1” bits in the control register 70.

[0105] Assume further that the time conditions specified by the field 74(FIG. 4) limit calls from area code 415 to days other than Sunday.Assume that the history field 76 of the control word imposes alimitation of one call per day per calling station. Assume that thedemographics field 78 excludes any call from area codes “512”, “412”,“812”, - - - (not “415”). Finally, assume the selected format (field 80)designates a specific lottery format, that is lottery “128”.

[0106] In addition to registration of the data sets detailed above,because a history test is specified, the recent history storage 98 iscued during the interval of timing signal t3. The operation is throughthe memory 90 by the control unit 66 to prompt the supply of historicaldata (previously registered record words) for the telephone terminaldesignated by the calling number (“415 318 4444”). Specifically, duringthe interval of timing signal t3, the storage 98 supplies data on thecalling number to the history test logic network 100. Such data iscompiled into a test format as to indicate the number of calls per day,per week, and so on. Note that aggregate call totals may also besupplied as a test criteria. Thus, the control unit 66 coordinates thetest criteria data preparatory to the test operations of the individuallogic networks 94, 100 and 102.

[0107] To summarize, in accordance with the above assumptions, the testcontrol logic 72 is set up to coordinate the following specific logictests:

[0108] Time limitation test by network 94: accept calls from area code415 except on Sunday,

[0109] History limit test by network 100: accept only one call per dayper station,

[0110] Demographics test by network 102: accept no calls from area codes512, 412, 812 - - - (415 not listed).

[0111] As explained above, in addition to the limitations specified, inrelation to the format, further limitations may be specified by thecalling number. Such limitations are specified by the field 89 in theregister 68 (FIGS. 3 and 5). In the instant example, assume thataccording to the record word, participation in the lottery format islimited to the interval between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., e.g. whenminors are in school. The code for such a format is supplied during theinterval of timing signal t3 from the field 89 of the call register 68to further establish the set-up of the logic 94 acting through the testcontrol logic 72.

[0112] Recapitulating with regard to the test control logic 72,essentially a program is defined imposing each of the limitations thatare specified by the call data in sufficient detail that comparisontests are expediently performed by the networks 94, 100 and 102. It isstressed, as indicated above, that the tests are selectively performedonly in the event a “1” bit appears in the representative first threebit locations of the control word format. In the illustrative example,all the tests were commanded and accordingly the test control logic 72sets up the condition for tests to be performed by the networks 94, 100and 102, all during the interval of timing signal t3. Of course, thespecific example represents one possibility of a substantial number ofprograms that might be specified to the system.

[0113] With the test formats established in the test control logic 72,the logic networks 94, 100 and 102 are driven during the interval oftest signal t4 to execute a program in accordance with the assumedexample. The process may be variously implemented in logic using wellknown techniques and is detailed in FIG. 6. Consider the time test ofthe network 94. The time test logic network 94 approves an interfaceonly if: the call is not from area code “415” on a Sunday andfurthermore the call occurs between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 3:00p.m. As indicated in FIG. 6, a decision block 120 resolves the area-code“415” time test. If the area code is not “415”, the logic proceeds tothe next query block 122. Alternatively, if the area code is “415”, theday must be tested against Sunday as indicated by the query block 124.An affirmative indication from the Sunday test of block 124 prompts arejection as indicated by the block 126.

[0114] If the Sunday test of block 124 is passed, the program imposesanother time test, that is the time-of-day test as indicated by theblock 122. Again, a negative result prompts a rejection; however, apositive result involves the next step as indicated by the block 128.

[0115] Note that the operations designated by query blocks 120, 122 and124 are performed by the time test logic network 94 (FIG. 3). The nexttest of the block 128 is performed by the history test logic 100. Theblock 128 (FIG. 6) involves a determination of whether or not theinstant call is the first for the calling terminal on the instantcalendar day. If not, the limitations are exceeded and the call isrejected. If the test is passed, the process next involves thedemographic test logic network 102 (FIG. 3) to determine whether or notthe call originated from an excluded area based on the calling numberarea code.

[0116] Area controls are illustrated by the query block 130 of FIG. 6.Specifically, the demographics test logic network 102 determines whetheror not the current call is from a denied area. If so, the call isrejected as indicated by the block 126. Alternatively, if the area isnot excluded, as illustrated by the block 134 in FIG. 6, the interfaceis accepted. In the instant case, the area “415” is acceptable.

[0117] In the operation of the system as illustrated in FIG. 3, thelogic networks 94, 100 and 102 indicate test results to the test controllogic 72 during the interval of the timing signal t5. The logic 72correlates the test result for action by the control unit 66. If theimposed conditions are met (or if there are no conditions) the controlunit 66 actuates the switch unit 105 and the address register 109through the line 107 to perfect the interface from the line 60 (upperleft) to either a port in the processor P (FIG. 1) or one of theoperator stations OS1-OSn. Essentially, the switching operation occursduring the interval of the timing signal t6. Concurrently, the addressregister 109 specifies the select operating format as stored in theprocessor P for direct use in an interface with a caller, or to beretrieved and supplied through the switch SW to prompt an operator at astation OS1-OSn.

[0118] Also during the interval of the timing signal t6, the contents ofthe call register 68 is stored in the recent history storage 98. Notethat billing data is stored with the call words and may be selectivelyextracted from the storage 98. At the termination of the timing signalt6, the interface endures until there is a “disconnect” or an “abort”.

[0119] If the processor P senses the existence of conditions specifyinga shift between a processor interface and a live operator communication,the control unit 66 is actuated as indicated through line 115. Note thatthe abort signal is formed either in response to predeterminedconditions in an interface with the processor P, or on command from anactive operator station. The signal is also supplied to the look-uptable 84 which becomes active if a transfer is conditional. That is, ifa transfer is conditional, the tests as described above may be invoked.Conversely, if the transfer is unconditional, the control unit 66 simplyactuates the switch 105 to make the change and prompts the formataddress register to establish the desired format or prompt pattern foran operator.

[0120] The formats may involve various records, however, in accordancewith the system of the present invention affords considerableflexibility to program individual conditions and limitations for eachinterface format based on the call data (calling number and callednumber). An interface may involve no conditions or conditions may beimposed from the called number (format selection), the calling number,or both. Accordingly, effective control may be imposed depending uponthe service requested as manifest by an individual format, the instanttime, the history of use and the demographics involved. The imposedlimitations may be non-existent or may involve a relatively complex testpattern as explained in detail above.

[0121] In the disclosed embodiment, an effective record of calls isaccumulated in the recent history storage 98. Thus, a composite anddetailed record is accumulated of individual calls as executed.

[0122] It is to be appreciated that numerous formats may be implementedand controlled utilizing the principles of the system as illustratedabove. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the system of thepresent invention should be interpreted in accordance with the claims asset forth below.

What is claimed is:
 1. An interface control system for use with, (1) acommunication facility including remote terminals for individualcallers, wherein said remote terminals may comprise a conventionaltelephone instrument including voice communication means and digitalinput means for providing data, (2) a multiple port, multiple formatprocessor for interfacing a substantial number of callers in any of aplurality of formats to concurrently process data, and (3) a pluralityof live operator stations with prompting capability, for a plurality offormats, said interface control system comprising: call data means forreceiving signal-represented call data from said terminals; selectionmeans for selecting one of said formats under control of said call datameans to thereby further specify any defined conditions for a connectionof a call either to said multiple port, multiple format processor or oneof said live operator stations, at least one of said formats having atleast one specified condition; and interconnect switch means forproviding format data and controlling connections from a calling remoteterminal to a port of said multiple port, multiple format processor orone of said live operator stations under control of said selectionmeans.
 2. A system according to claim 1 further including test means tospecify test conditions for certain of said formats and means to testcompliance with said conditions to further control said interconnectswitch means.
 3. A system according to claim 2 wherein one of said testmeans comprises means for executing a test based on the time of a call.4. A system according to claim 2 wherein one of said test meanscomprises means for executing a test based on the history of the callingremote terminal.
 5. A system according to claim 2 wherein one of saidtest means comprises means for executing a test based on thedemographics of the calling remote terminal.
 6. A system according toclaim 1 wherein said selection means includes a look-up table forspecifying said formats addressed by call data.
 7. A system according toclaim 1 wherein said selection means includes a control storage locationand means for setting control data in said control storage locationresponsive to said call data.
 8. A system according to claim 1 furtherincluding a voice generator means for prompting a caller.
 9. A systemaccording to claim 1 further including means for storing datarepresentative of calls.
 10. A system according to claim 9 wherein saidmeans for storing includes means for storing billing data.
 11. A systemaccording to claim 1 further including means to provide an abort signal,the system being responsive to said abort signal to reactuate saidinterconnect switch means for providing alternative connections withformat data.
 12. A system according to claim 11 further including testmeans to specify test conditions for certain of said formats and meansto test compliance with said conditions to further control saidinterconnect switch means.
 13. A system according to claim 1 whereinsaid selection means selects under control of DNIS signals.
 14. A systemaccording to claim 1 wherein said selection means selects under controlof ANI signals.
 15. A system according to claim 1 wherein said selectionmeans selects under control of equipment type signals.
 16. An interfacecontrol system for use with, (1) a communication facility includingremote terminals for individual callers, wherein said remote terminalsmay comprise a conventional telephone instrument including voicecommunication means and digital input means for providing data, (2) amultiple port, multiple format processor for interfacing a substantialnumber of callers in any of a plurality of formats to concurrentlyprocess data, and (3) a plurality of live operator stations withprompting capability, for a plurality of formats, said interface controlsystem comprising: call data means for receiving signal-represented calldata from said terminals; selection means for selecting one of saidformats under control of said call data means to thereby further specifyany defined conditions for a connection of a call either to saidmultiple port, multiple format processor or one of said live operatorstations, at least one of said formats having at least one specifiedcondition; test means for testing the specified conditions to provideapproval signals; and interconnect switch means for providingconnections from a calling remote terminal to a port of said multipleport, multiple format processor or one of said live operator stationsunder control of said selection means and conditional, in conditionedformats, on an approval signal from said test means under control ofsaid approval signals from said test means.
 17. A process forinterfacing a telephonic communication system including remote terminalseither with a multiple port, multiple format data processing system,said multiple port, multiple format data processing system forconcurrently processing data from said remote terminals according to aplurality of formats, at least one of said formats having at least onecondition for a calling terminal, or one of a plurality of operatorstations with prompting capability for a plurality of formats, andwherein said telephonic communication system provides call data signals,as to indicate called and calling numbers, said process including thesteps of: receiving said call data signals from said telephoniccommunication system for a calling remote terminal; selecting aprocessing format either for said multiple port, multiple formatprocessing system or one of said plurality of operator stations for thecalling remote terminal under control of said data signals as theselected format; testing the selected format in relation to said calldata signals; and conditionally interfacing said selected format to acalling terminal under control of said testing of call data signals.